adminAs entrepreneurs, CEOs, or high-profile people with a long list of meetings and events to attend, we get to the point where help is needed. This is because they can no longer single-handedly keep up with the demands of their career and life. And the solution is to get someone to help oversee these schedules so they don’t miss out on anything. But depending on the help needed, which one would the client go for between a virtual assistant and an executive assistant?
Two of the most overused and misused words are virtual assistant and executive assistant. While both roles aim to reduce the workload of the client and streamline their day, their method of execution is quite different.
If you’ve ever been confused about which freelance careers to pursue and which you should focus on, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Role of Virtual Assistant and Executive Assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) is most often a remotely working employee who provides all manner of services that include administrative, creative, or technical services to clients or businesses. The most important factor here is that they work remotely. VAs typically work on the internet and often have more than one client.
Virtual assistants have become very popular with digital-first businesses, startups, and even entrepreneurs. Consider a virtual assistant to take tasks that are recurring or time-consuming off the plate of your client. Your role might include:
- Organizing your email inbox
- Booking appointments or meetings
- Updating your social media accounts
- Researching on the internet
- Responding to customer service emails
- Creating blog posts or newsletters in a format
There are virtual assistant job platforms where you can get the right clients with the right budget, a great timezone, and needs.
An executive assistant(EA), on the other hand, holds a more active and occasionally strategic role. Traditionally, Executive Assistants are among the most intimate members of staff closest to senior-level executives, who help not only with the management of their schedules but also with the operations supporting their daily decision-making.
Although some executive assistants now work remotely, many still work in in-person positions, especially within corporate settings where they attend high-level meetings, interact with other departments, and deal with confidential documents.
Executive Assistants are not assistants for tasks; they’re a right-hand man. And they can
- Coordinate and schedule executive travel and meetings
- Screen and filter incoming communications and prioritize
- Coordinate with other departments or clients
- Prepare reports and presentations
- Plan to anticipate executive needs before being asked to
- Coordinate logistics for board meetings or internal events
The relationship between an executive and his or her assistant is usually long-term and is one built on trust. Unlike Virtual Assistants, who may have multiple clients, Executive Assistants usually work for a single executive or a tiny leadership group at a time.
Virtual Assistant and Executive Assistant: What’s the Real Difference?
While both freelance careers are designed to lighten burdens and make life easier for the clients, their differences lie in the depth of work and the relationship.
A virtual assistant is kind of a reliable freelancer who is quick, nimble, and ideal for task-oriented projects. They get assigned tasks, and they do it, typically with little more context than the task at hand.
An executive assistant, however, is more accurately defined as a partner who grows with someone. They understand different personalities, can read needs, and often represent the client in meetings or communication. Executive Assistants are woven into your day-to-day workflow and play a significant role in how your time and attention are allocated.
Why a Virtual Assistant and Executive Assistant is Hired
Why Virtual Assistants are Hired:
When plates are filled with small to mid-level admin tasks that don’t require in-depth knowledge of the business, a virtual assistant is usually the best choice.
Other reasons include:
- Getting affordable help without hiring full-time staff.
- Once much of your work is done online.
- A flexible remote help is required.
- There is a need for someone to cover tasks like scheduling, emails, customer support, or small data handling.
Why Executive Assistants are Hired:
Clients who spend their days making high-level decisions, complicated scheduling, and having a need for anticipatory assistance often prefer going for an executive assistant.
This is because they:
- Hold a leadership role with multiple moving parts.
- They can appear and manage high-stakes meetings on behalf of the client.
- Possesses a high level of discretion in managing sensitive information
Executive assistants are not just helpers; they help clients do their best work.
Conclusion
Ultimately, deciding which to choose between a virtual assistant and executive assistant is about knowing your strengths for the different requirements of the roles. Know that for whichever role, you are providing a huge support and relief to those who end up hiring you. Communities are a good place to grow your talent, and you might want to commit yourself to one to help you get the right opportunities.
admin
